The Northern Senators Forum has described former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, as a detribalised Nigerian and voice of reason as he clocks 70 on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

In a tribute signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, the Forum said Makarfi’s journey from the classroom to the boardroom, Government House and the Senate reflects humility, service and enduring impact.

It recalled that Makarfi began his career as a classroom teacher and part-time lecturer in the Department of Accounting at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, between 1987 and 1993.

He later moved to the banking sector, where he rose to Assistant General Manager at Nigeria Universal Bank, before serving as Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance.

In 1999, Makarfi was elected Governor of Kaduna State and served two terms until 2007. The Forum said his administration provided steady leadership during turbulent times and laid foundations in governance, peace-building and development that the state continues to build upon.

After leaving office as governor, he represented Kaduna North Senatorial District in the 6th and 7th Senate from 2007 to 2015.

The Forum noted that in the red chamber, Makarfi brought the same calm intellect, depth and commitment to nation-building that defined his years as governor.

It also highlighted his role as National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, during a period of crisis, saying he helped stabilise and reconcile the party.

“At 70, you are rightly honoured as a detribalised Nigerian. Your name and your work are celebrated not only in Makarfi, not only in Kaduna, but across every corner of our country,” the statement said.

The Forum added that in every responsibility he handled— in the classroom, in banking, in the State House, in the Senate, and at the national secretariat of a major political party- Makarfi left institutions better than he met them.

As he enters what it described as a season of elder statesmanship, the Forum prayed that Allah continues to grant him guidance, wisdom, strength and good health.

“May He make you a burden-bearer and a counsellor for the next generation of leaders. Nigeria still needs your voice — calm in crisis, firm in principle, and generous in counsel,” it said.

The Northern Senators Forum concluded that it celebrates Makarfi today and prays that his new decade will be his most impactful yet.

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